News Brief

May 5, 2006

A coalition of U.S. churches appealed to Israel, the United States and the Palestinian Authority to come to an accommodation. “We affirm President Bush’s vision of a two-state solution that provides for a viable Palestinian state living in peace alongside a secure Israel,” the statement from Churches for Middle East Peace said. “But we are concerned that Hamas’ rejectionist rhetoric and Israel’s actions on the ground are making that goal seem impossible.” Israel and the West have cut off the Palestinian Authority until Hamas recognizes Israel and renounces violence. The statement said the coalition, representing the gamut of mainstream U.S. churches, was concerned about the impact of cuts in funding to the Palestinian Authority. “Our highest priority is to prevent the humanitarian crisis that is anticipated as the United States and European donors stop all financial aid going to the Palestinian Authority and tightly restrict aid going through non-governmental organizations,” it said.